Indiana Low-Income Housing Tax Credit: Renter Guide

The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program helps make safe, affordable rental housing available to low- and moderate-income families throughout Indiana. LIHTC properties offer reduced rents while following important affordability rules set by federal and state agencies. This guide covers how Indiana renters can benefit from LIHTC, how to find and apply for these homes, and your rights as a tenant.

What Are LIHTC Properties?

LIHTC (Low-Income Housing Tax Credit) properties are rental housing units built or renovated with federal tax credits overseen by the Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Landlords who receive these tax credits must charge affordable rents to tenants who meet income guidelines.

• Rent is capped so it stays affordable
• Tenants must meet maximum income limits that change yearly
• Eligibility is based on household size and total gross income
• Units are found across Indiana, including cities and rural areas

Eligibility for LIHTC Apartments in Indiana

To qualify for LIHTC rentals in Indiana, you must:

• Be income-eligible based on your household size
• Usually, earn 60% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI) for your location
• Provide proof of income and documents during application

For current income limits in Indiana, check the official HUD lookup tool.

How to Find and Apply for LIHTC Housing

Here’s how Indiana renters can search for and apply to LIHTC units:

• Use the Indiana Housing Now search tool to find properties
• Contact property managers directly to learn about open units and waitlist procedures
• Prepare required paperwork such as pay stubs, ID, and recent tax returns

Applications are handled by the LIHTC property manager, not a central state office.

Renter Rights and Protections in Indiana LIHTC Properties

LIHTC tenants in Indiana have all normal rental rights under state law, plus extra protection from discrimination and arbitrary eviction:

• Landlords must follow Indiana Residential Landlord-Tenant Statutes
• Eviction can only occur through official court processes
• Reasonable maintenance and timely repairs are required
• Tenants may not be evicted without proper written notice
• Fair housing rules prohibit discrimination based on race, national origin, disability, and more

Tip: Always get a written receipt when submitting rent or maintenance requests, and keep copies for your records.

Relevant Indiana Forms for LIHTC Renters

• Indiana Notice of Tenant’s Intent to Move Out (Self-Help Form)
  Use this when providing official notice to end your lease. Give it to your property manager as required by your rental agreement (commonly 30 days advance notice).
• Indiana Complaint for Maintenance (Tenant Complaint Form)
  Submit this if your landlord does not fix serious repair issues after written request. File with your local small claims court if the issue is not resolved.

Who Oversees LIHTC Housing and Tenant Disputes?

The Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA) monitors LIHTC property compliance. For legal housing disputes, Indiana’s Small Claims Courts (by county) handle most rental cases. For discrimination concerns, contact the Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC).

Indiana Landlord-Tenant Legislation

Your rights as a renter are outlined in the Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31: Landlord-Tenant Relations ^[1]. This law covers notice requirements, security deposits, evictions, repairs, and other key issues.

FAQ: Indiana LIHTC Apartments

1. What does LIHTC mean for my rent amount?
   Rents are capped at affordable levels, generally based on a set percentage of the local median income. You’ll pay less compared to market-rate apartments if you qualify.
2. Do I have to re-qualify each year for my LIHTC apartment?
   Most residents must complete annual income recertification. Your property manager will notify you when paperwork is due.
3. If my income rises above the limit, will I lose my apartment?
   You may still be allowed to stay, but the unit manager may adjust the mix of qualifying tenants. Changes in income should be reported to your property manager.
4. What if my landlord refuses to repair my home?
   First, notify them in writing. If repairs are not made, you can use the Complaint for Maintenance form and seek help from IHCDA or your local small claims court.
5. Can my LIHTC landlord evict me without cause?
   Indiana law requires landlords to follow strict procedures for eviction, including written notice and a chance to respond in court.

Key Takeaways for Indiana LIHTC Renters

• LIHTC apartments offer affordable housing with legal protections
• Eligibility depends on your income and household size
• Know your renter rights and use official forms for notices or complaints

Staying informed helps you make the most of Indiana’s affordable housing resources.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA) – Main agency for LIHTC info and tenant support
• Indiana County Small Claims Courts – File complaints or resolve disputes
• Indiana Civil Rights Commission – File housing discrimination complaints
• HUD Indiana Renting Resources – Federal guides and local contacts
• IndianaLegalHelp.org – Free legal info for housing questions

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1. Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31: Landlord-Tenant Relations

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